Method for fighting against arthropods destructive of crops and compositions therefor

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to processes for controlling arthropods, particularly processes for controlling insects and especially processes for controlling insects which ravage crops, particularly rice crops or market-garden crops; as well as to processes for protecting crops, particularly rice crops or market-garden crops; as well as to processes directed towards improving the yield of the treated crops; as well as to compositions or products which may be used in such processes.

DESCRIPTION

[0001] The present invention relates to processes for controllingarthropods, particularly processes for controlling insects andespecially processes for controlling insects which ravage crops,particularly rice crops or market-garden crops; as well as to processesfor protecting crops, particularly rice crops; as well as to processesdirected towards improving the yield of the treated crops; as well as tocompositions or products which may be used in such processes.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to processes asmentioned above which use specific insecticidal compounds in combinationwith other insecticidal compounds that are also specific; these areusually processes combining, in a particularly advantageous manner, theaction of an insecticidal compound (A) comprising a pyrazole group andthe action of an insecticidal compound (B), particularly an insecticidalcompound of the pyrethroid family.

[0003] The literature discloses processes using a wide variety ofinsecticidal compounds. However, the known insecticidal compounds usedin such processes, although having certain insecticidal effects, oftendo not make it possible to overcome numerous problems encountered by theusers of such products, in particular users seeking specific solutionstailored to quite specific uses.

[0004] International patent application WO 95/22902 is known, whichdiscloses certain insecticidal processes that are useful for controllingtermites and which use certain specific compounds of the fiprole familywith pyrethroids.

[0005] Processes for controlling certain specific types of chrysomeleswhich attack corn crops, and which use a specific pyrazole with certaincompounds of the pyrethroid family, are also known from American patentapplication Ser. No. 09/396,331.

[0006] However, these patent applications do not make it possible toprovide satisfactory solutions to the problems which may be encounteredin combating or controlling insects which ravage crops, in particular bymeans of specific insecticidal processes.

[0007] One of the problems encountered in the protection of cropsagainst harmful arthropods, and in particular insect pests, lies in theneed to reduce the amounts of active ingredient used whilst allowing asatisfactory, if not greater, efficacy to be obtained. Indeed, it iscommon to broadcast or employ large amounts of the said insecticidalactive ingredients.

[0008] Another problem encountered concerns the need to have availableactive ingredients which are effective against a broad spectrum ofinsect pests capable of damaging or damaging crops.

[0009] Another problem relates to the effect over time of the activeingredients employed for the protection of crops: it is desirable bothto have active ingredients possessing an immediate, or virtuallyimmediate, insecticidal activity following application to the crops, andalso that these said active ingredients possess an insecticidal effectwhose duration is sufficient to allow effective and lasting protectionof the crops against insect pests.

[0010] Another problem lies in the fact that certain insecticidal activeingredients do not possess an immediate insecticidal effect but act onlyafter a certain period of time has elapsed following application,thereby allowing the populations of insect pests to multiply before theactive ingredient utilized takes effect.

[0011] Another problem encountered with a considerable number ofinsecticidal active ingredients is that they have only a curativeeffect, therefore obliging the user to undertake demanding and carefulmonitoring of the crops in order to determine the exact time oftreatment.

[0012] Another problem of significance is that a number of insecticidalactive ingredients have only a preventive effect, therefore forcing theuser to broadcast amounts of these active ingredients which,subsequently, prove to be useless.

[0013] Another problem associated with the use of certain insecticidalactive ingredients resides in the phenomenon of resurgence of thepopulations of insect pests treated, a phenomenon which is critical tothe user, who initially sees the populations of harmful organismsreduced after treatment but then, subsequently, sees these populationsgrow again. Although this phenomenon of resurgence is not frequent, itis extremely damaging when it does occur.

[0014] Another problem which lies in the use of certain knowninsecticidal compounds is the difficulty of finding a means foreffectively controlling a group of several insect pests liable to attacka specific crop.

[0015] In particular, it is especially difficult to provide a means ofeffective insecticidal control for a set of insect pests which ravagerice crops, especially a means of controlling insect pests of thefamilies Delphacidae, Noctuidae, Plutellidae, Pyralidae, Tortricidae.

[0016] The numerous problems which have been set out above are veryoften accompanied by those associated with the protection of theenvironment, environmental problems to which the users of insecticidalactive ingredients are more and more sensitive, as are the consumers ofthe products obtained from these crops.

[0017] Another difficulty in relation to the use of many insecticideslies in the cumulative effect of two or more of the problems which havebeen set out above. Indeed, it is even more difficult to solve theproblems which have arisen when they accumulate, since the solutionswhich may be considered are in some cases contradictory or evenconflictive.

[0018] Moreover, and of a general nature, it is always desirable toimprove the spectrum of activity and the efficacy of compounds having aninsecticidal action, or to reinforce the said spectra of activity and ofefficacy, by combining the said compounds in order to obtain ahigher-performance product or combination, as well as processes forcombating or controlling insects which ravage crops, these processesbeing optimally tailored to the specific requirements of the users.

[0019] It is also desirable to prevent the appearance of resistances tothese insecticides on the part of insect pests.

[0020] It is likewise always desirable to provide the user of theseinsecticidal compounds with an increased range of insecticidal means forcombating or controlling insect pests, particularly in the field ofagriculture, owing in particular to the devastation which these insectpests can wreak on crops.

[0021] It is likewise highly desirable to improve or better control therate or persistency of action of these insecticidal compounds.

[0022] It is likewise always desirable to provide the user of theseinsecticidal compounds with means of combating or controlling insectpests under specific conditions of use, especially in accordance withthe environment of the crops to be protected or in accordance with thecrops or the insect pests damaging or damaging these crops, oralternatively according to the degree of infestation with these insectpests.

[0023] It is also most desirable to provide insecticidal control meanswhich possess a so-called knockdown insecticidal effect, the saidknockdown effect consisting, in the sense of the present text, in arapid effect of the insecticidal action, usually measured by a rapiddecrease in the number of insects. Such a knockdown effect is preferablyrecognized for active materials whose satisfactory insecticidal actionappears within a few hours.

[0024] It is likewise desirable to allow a persistency of action overtime of the insecticidal action of the insecticidal active ingredientsemployed.

[0025] The present invention therefore proposes to provide solutions toall or part of the many problems which have been set out above. Thepresent invention also proposes to attain all or part of the objectiveswhich have been referred to.

[0026] An essential aspect of the present invention relates to specificprocesses for treating and controlling crop-damaging arthropods,preferentially insecticidal processes, which use an insecticidalcompound (A) containing a pyrazole group, and an insecticidal compound(B) of the pyrethroid family.

[0027] Preferentially, the processes according to the present inventionare advantageously carried out in the agricultural sector, particularlyfor plant protection.

[0028] Advantageously, the protection or treatment processes accordingto the present invention use an insecticidal compound (A) of thephenylpyrazole family.

[0029] More advantageously, the said processes according to theinvention use an insecticidal compound (A) of formula (I)

[0030] in which:

[0031] R₁ represents —CN or the methyl radical or the radical —C(S)NH₂or the radical —C(═N—Y)Z;

[0032] R₂ represents —S(O)_(n)R₃;

[0033] R₃ represents an alkyl or haloalkyl radical;

[0034] R₄ is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, ahalogen atom and a radical which can be —NR₅R₆, —C(O)OR₇, —S(O)_(m)R₇,alkyl, haloalkyl, —OR₈ or —N═C(R₉) (R₁₀);

[0035] R₅ and R₆ are selected independently from a hydrogen atom, analkyl or haloalkyl radical, —C(O)alkyl, —C(O)OR₇ and —S(O)_(r)CF₃; or R₅and R₆ together form a divalent radical which can be interrupted by oneor more heteroatoms;

[0036] R₇ is selected from an alkyl radical and a haloalkyl radical;

[0037] R₈ is selected from an alkyl radical, a haloalkyl radical and ahydrogen atom;

[0038] R₉ is selected from a hydrogen atom and an alkyl radical;

[0039] R₁₀ is selected from a phenyl and heteroaryl radical optionallysubstituted with one or more hydroxyl radicals, halogen atoms,—O-alkyls, —S-alkyls, cyano or alkyl radicals or a combination thereof;

[0040] X is selected from the nitrogen atom and the radical C—R₁₂;

[0041] Y is selected from the hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy,arylcarbonyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl,alkylcarbamoyl and pyrazole groups, substituted or unsubstituted;

[0042] Z is selected from the hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy,arylcarbonyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyland alkylcarbamoyl groups;

[0043] R₁₁, and R₁₂ are selected independently from a halogen atom and ahydrogen atom;

[0044] R₁₃ is selected from a halogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxyradical, —S(O)_(q)CF₃ and —SF₅;

[0045] m, n, q and r are selected independently from 0, 1 and 2;

[0046] with the proviso that, if R₁ represents the methyl radical, thenR₃ represents a haloalkyl radical, R₄ represents —NH₂, R₁₁ representsCl, R₁₃ represents —CF₃ and X represents N;

[0047] the alkyl and alkoxy radicals of the formula (I) are preferablylower alkyl and alkoxy radicals, i.e. radicals possessing from one tofour carbon atoms;

[0048] the haloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals likewise possess preferablyfrom one to four carbon atoms;

[0049] the haloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals can carry one or morehalogen atoms; the preferred radicals of this type comprise —CF₃ and—OCF₃.

[0050] According to one preferred variant, the processes according tothe invention use an insecticidal compound (A) of formula (I) in which:

[0051] R₁ represents —CN; and/or

[0052] R₄ represents —NR₅R₆; and/or

[0053] R₅ and R₆ are selected independently from a hydrogen atom, analkyl or haloalkyl radical and —C(O)alkyl; and/or

[0054] X represents —C—R₁₂; and/or

[0055] R₁₃ is selected from a halogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxyradical and —SF₅.

[0056] According to one especially advantageous variant, the protectionor treatment processes according to the invention use Fipronil, chemicalname5-amino-3-cyano-1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-4-trifluoromethylsulphinylpyrazole,as insecticidal compound (A).

[0057] According to another advantageous embodiment of the processesaccording to the invention, the compound (B) used is a compound offormula (II)

[0058] in which:

[0059] R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl radical or aC₁ to C₈ haloalkyl radical or a halogen atom or a substituted orunsubstituted phenyl group; and/or

[0060] R₃ represents a —CN group or a hydrogen atom or a C₁ to C₈ alkylradical; and/or

[0061] R₄ represents a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group.

[0062] According to another advantageous embodiment, the compound (B)used in the processes according to the invention is a compound offormula (II) in which:

[0063] R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, a bromine atom or a chlorineatom or a methyl radical or an isopropyl radical or a para-chlorophenylradical or a trifluoromethyl radical; and/or

[0064] R₄ represents a substituted or unsubstituted phenoxybenzyl group.

[0065] According to another advantageous embodiment, the compound (B)used for the processes according to the invention is a compound offormula (II) in which:

[0066] R₄ represents a halophenoxybenzyl group.

[0067] Where appropriate, and during its use in processes according tothe invention, the compound (B) of formula (II) may be either in theform of a specific isomer or in the form of a mixture of severalisomers, or even in the form of a mixture of several compounds offormula (II).

[0068] However, as regards the compounds of the pyrethroid family whichare used as insecticidal compound (B) during the use of the protectionor treatment processes according to the invention, the compoundspreferably used are those chosen from the group comprising

[0069] bifenthrin or2-methylbiphenyl-3-ylmethyl-(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0070] cyfluthrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0071] cyhalothrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0072] cypermethrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0073] alpha-cypermethrin or racemic mixture comprising(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0074] beta-cypermethrin or reaction mixture comprising, in a 2:3 ratio,the 2 enantiomeric pairs (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate with(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0075] theta-cypermethrin or mixture of the enantiomers(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in a1:1 ratio;

[0076] zeta-cypermethrin or mixture of the stereoisomers(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,in which mixture the ratio of the enantiomeric pairs (S)-(1RS,3RS) and(S)-(1RS,3SR) is, respectively, between 45/55 and 55/45;

[0077] deltamethrin or (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0078] fenpropathrin or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0079] fenvalerate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(RS)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methylbutyrate;

[0080] flumethrin or α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl;

[0081] permethrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0082] phenothrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0083] tefluthrin or 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-methylbenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0084] tralomethrin or (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-2,2-dimethyl-3-[(RS)-1,2,2,2-tetrabromoethyl]cyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0085] flucythrinate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(S)-2-(4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)-3-methylbutyrate;

[0086] tau-fluvalinate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzylN-(2-chloro-α,α,α-trifluoro-p-tolyl)-D-valinate.

[0087] Moreover, the compounds of the pyrethroid family which may beused when carrying out the processes according to the invention are, forsome of them, known per se as having certain insecticidal properties oras having insecticidal activity, while at the same time being acceptablefor agricultural uses, in particular for treating or protecting crops.

[0088] In the different process variants according to the presentinvention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) are used in effectivebut non-phytotoxic doses.

[0089] As regards the insecticidal compounds (A) containing a pyrazolegroup, which are used in the various processes according to the presentinvention, reference may also be made to those disclosed, respectively,in the European patents or patent applications EP-A-0 295 117, EP-A-0460 940 or EP-A-0 484 165; as well as in International patentapplication WO 98/28279.

[0090] Reference may moreover be made to the book The ElectronicPesticide Manual version 1.0 (from the British Crop Protection Council,edited by Clive Tomlin) as regards processes for preparing theinsecticidal compounds (B).

[0091] Except where otherwise mentioned and throughout the present text,the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) used may be denoted, withoutpreference, by any one of the following expressions: active materials orcompounds or insecticidal compounds or active substances or insecticidalsubstances, without, however, departing from the spirit of the presentinvention, especially on account of the insecticidal properties of thesecompounds, substances or materials.

[0092] Preferably, and for their use in practise when carrying out theprocesses according to the present invention, the various insecticidalsubstances (A) and (B) described above are rarely used alone.

[0093] Thus, for their use in the processes according to the invention,the insecticidal active materials (A) and (B) are usually combined witha solid or liquid support, which can be used especially in theagricultural sector, and optionally with at least one surfactant and/orone or more auxiliary agents.

[0094] These processes according to the invention, which are useful inparticular for protecting plants against insects, use as active materialat least one of the insecticidal compounds (A) or (B) as describedabove, advantageously in combination with agriculturally acceptablesolid or liquid supports and/or surfactants that are also agriculturallyacceptable.

[0095] In particular, supports which may be used are the common inertsupports; similarly, surfactants which may be used are the surfactantsthat are common in the formulation of compositions intended foragricultural use, in particular for treating or protecting crops, suchas those of the present invention.

[0096] A more detailed description of the various compounds or adjuvantswhich, for the purposes of the present invention, may be combined withthe compounds (A) and (B) will be the subject of a specific developmentlater in the present text.

[0097] Usually, the processes according to the invention useformulations comprising between 0.00001% and 100%, preferably between0.001% and 80%, of insecticidal compounds (A) and (B), whether thesecompounds are combined or are in the form of two active materials usedseparately.

[0098] Usually, however, the processes according to the inventioncombine an insecticidal compound (A) and an insecticidal compound (B)simultaneously.

[0099] Except where otherwise mentioned, the proportions and percentagesused or described throughout the present description and in the claimswhich follow are proportions or percentages on a weight basis.

[0100] More generally, when they are used in the processes according tothe invention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) may be combinedwith any solid or liquid additive corresponding to the usual formulationtechniques, particularly the formulation of products or compositionsintended for uses or utilizations in agriculture.

[0101] Among the treatment and/or protection processes or methodsaccording to the invention, the ones which are preferred are those whichare used for treating and/or protecting crops.

[0102] The said use of the processes according to the invention can becarried out according to various forms and in particular using quite awide variety of application methods, but also according to differentapplication techniques, or alternatively to protect different types,varieties or families of vegetation or plants, or alternatively tocombat or control different types or species of arthropods, especiallyinsect pests.

[0103] As regards the various application methods carried outbeneficially in the processes according to the invention, simultaneous,separate, alternating or sequential application methods are especiallypossible.

[0104] Usually, however, the application methods that are beneficial inthe processes according to the invention and which are preferred consistof methods for applying the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B)simultaneously.

[0105] However, a relatively advantageous variant of a process accordingto the invention uses a method of alternate application of theinsecticidal compounds (A) and (B).

[0106] Another application method which is useful for carrying out theprocesses according to the invention relates to the sequentialapplication of the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B); such a sequentialapplication method may especially take the form of several applicationsof insecticidal compound (A), followed by several applications ofinsecticidal compound (B). Needless to say, a reversed sequentialapplication method consisting of several applications of insecticidalcompound (B) followed by several applications of insecticidal compound(A) also forms a part of the processes of the present invention.

[0107] The different variants for carrying out the processes accordingto the invention which have just been described may also be combined orassociated, in whole or in part, with one another. A person skilled inthe art will readily know how to determine the associations orcombinations of application methods according to the invention whichbest suit the use of the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) which heenvisages.

[0108] Besides the various methods for carrying out the processesaccording to the invention which have just been described, the saidprocesses can also use a relatively large number of applicationtechniques; thus, among the said techniques which may be mentioned inparticular are dusting, dipping, spraying, smoking or misting, etc.

[0109] Other variants of the application methods that are useful for theprocesses according to the invention exist, particularly depending onthe part(s) of the plant or vegetation which is (are) to be treated.

[0110] Thus, the processes according to the invention can be carried outfor the treatment or protection of the plant propagation material or theseeds, in particular the grains, the tubers or the rhizomes; for thetreatment of the roots, or for the treatment of the stems or leaves ofthe plant; as well as for the treatment of the roots, or alternativelyof the fruits or other parts of the plant having a substantial economicor agronomic value.

[0111] Furthermore, the said processes according to the invention may becarried out for the treatment of plants at numerous stages in theirdevelopment, in particular for the treatment of seeds, seedlings orplanted-out seedlings, planted-out plants, or plants.

[0112] The processes which are carried out for the treatment of the soilunder cultivation or to be cultivated also form a part of the presentinvention.

[0113] However, and in a particularly advantageous manner, the processesaccording to the invention use the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B)for treatment by foliar application to the plant to be treated. Evenmore advantageously, such a treatment is carried out by spraying.

[0114] Likewise, said processes according to the invention for seedtreatment are particularly advantageous.

[0115] The processes for treating or protecting plants according to theinvention by means of the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) areparticularly advantageous when carried out for the treatment orprotection of cereal or market-garden crops, particularly rice, wheat,barley or rye, as well as for the treatment or protection of corn,sorghum, sunflower, soybean, or alternatively cotton, pea, rape, potato,vegetable or fruit crops, beet, onions, cabbages, tomatoes, beans,lettuces, etc.

[0116] The said processes for treating or protecting plants according tothe invention give particularly advantageous results when used for thetreatment of rice. Particularly advantageous results are obtained withnumerous varieties of rice, whether or not these varieties are hybridvarieties. The processes according to the invention that arebeneficially carried out for the treatment or protection of the varietyOryza sativa also give highly satisfactory results.

[0117] As may emerge from the preceding development of the present text,the processes according to the invention may be useful both forpreventive treatments and for curative treatments.

[0118] The processes according to the invention using an insecticidalcompound (A) and an insecticidal compound (B) are advantageously carriedout to combat or control harmful arthropods, especially harmful insects.

[0119] Thus, the said processes according to the invention areadvantageously employed for combating or controlling insects of thefamilies Delphacidae sp., especially Nilaparvata lugens, Nilaparvataoryzae and Sogatella furcifera; and/or Cicadellidae sp. especiallyEmpoasca decipiens, Nephotettix apicalisi, Nephotettix impicticeps,Nephotettix cincticeps and Nilaparvata oryzae; and/or Pyralidae sp.,especially Tryporyza incertulas, Tryporyza innotata, Cnaphalocrosismedinalis, Chilo loftini, Chilo suppressalis, Chilo indicus andChilotraea plejadellus; Tylenchidae sp., especially Ditylenchus dipsaci,Ditylenchus angustus and Ditylenchus radicicolus; and/or Noctuidae sp.,especially Sesamia interens, Sesamia calamistis and Sesamia cretica;and/or Pentatomidae sp. especially Scotinophara lurida and Scotinopharacoarctata; and/or Plutellidae sp. especially Plutella xylostella; and/orTortricidae sp. especially Archips breviplicanus; and/or Cecidomyiidaesp. especially Orselia oryzae and Pachydiplosis oryzae.

[0120] According to another way of working the processes according tothe invention, they are advantageously carried out for combating orcontrolling soil borne insect pests and notably those where at least oneliving stage is in the soil and during this stage cause damages tocrops.

[0121] Thus, among such soil borne insect pests can be mentionedAeneolamia sp., Agrotis sp., Agriotes sp., Araecerus sp., Aulacophorasp., Atherigona sp., Cerotoma sp., Chilo sp., Cylas sp., Delia sp.,Diabrotica sp., Diaprepes sp., Elasmopalpus sp., Frankliniella sp.,Graphognathus sp., Gryllotalpa sp., Hypomeces sp., Heteronychus sp.,Holotrichia sp., Hydraecia sp., Hylemia sp., Leucopholis sp., Lepidiotasp., Limonius sp., Listroderes sp., Loxostege sp., Mamestra sp.,Melolontha sp., Oscinella sp., Ostrinia sp., Otiorhynchus sp.,Phyllophaga sp., Phyllotreta sp., Popillia sp., Pseudococcus sp., Psilasp., Psylloides sp., Sitona sp., Spoladea sp., Tanymecus sp., Thrips andTribolium sp.

[0122] Or even, processes according to the invention are veryadvantageous:

[0123] against lepidopterans, notably Pectinophora gossypiella, Bupaluspiniarius, Cheimatobia brumata, Lithocolletis blancardella, Hyponomeutapadella, Plutella sp., e.g. Plutella xylostella, Malacosoma neustria,Euproctis chrysorrhoea, Lymantria sp., e.g. Bucculatrix thurberiella,Phyllocnistis citrella, Agrotis sp., e.g. Agrotis segetum, Agrotisipsilon, Euxoa sp., Feltia sp., Earias insulana, Heliothis sp., e.g.Helicoverpa armigera, Helicoverpa armigera, Helicoverpa zea, Laphygmaexigua, Mamestra brassicae, Panolis flammea, Prodenia litura, Spodopterasp., e.g. Spodoptera littoralis, Spodoptera litura, Spodoptera exigua,Trichoplusia ni, Cydia pomonella, Pieris sp., Chilo sp., e.g. Chilosuppressalis, Pyrausta nubilalis, Ephestia kuehniella, Galleriamellonella, Cacoecia podana, Capua reticulana, Choristoneura fumiferana,Clysia ambiguella, Hofmannophila pseudospretella, Homona magnanima,Tineola bisselliella, Tinea pellionella, Elasmopalpus sp., Hydraeciasp., Loxostege sp., Ostrinia sp., Spoladea sp., e.g. Tortrix viridana;

[0124] against coleopterans, notably Anobium punctatum, Rhizoperthadominica, Bruchidius obtectus, Acanthoscelides obtectus, Hylotrupesbajulus, Agelastica alni, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Phaedoncochleariae, Diabrotica sp., e.g. Diabrotica undecimpunctata, Diabroticavirgifera, Psylloides chrysocephala, Epilachna varivestis, Atomaria sp.,e.g. Atomaria linearis, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, Anthonomus sp., e.g.Anthonomus grandis, Otiorhynchus sulcatus, Cosmopolites sordidus,Ceuthorrynchus assimilis, Hypera postica, Dermestes sp., Trogoderma sp.,Anthrenus sp., Attagenus sp., Lyctus sp., e.g. Meligethes aeneus, Ptinussp., e.g. Niptus hololeucus, Gibbium psylloides, Tribolium sp., e.g.Tenebrio molitor, Agriotes sp., e.g. Agriotes lineatus, Conoderus sp.,e.g. Melolontha melolontha, Amphimallon solstitialis, Aeolus sp.,Araecerus sp., Aulacophora sp., Cerotoma sp., Chaetocnema sp., Cylassp., Diaprepes sp., Graphognathus sp., Heteronychus sp., Holotrichiasp., Hypomeces sp., Leucopholis sp., Lepidiota sp., Limonius sp.,Listroderes sp., Melanotus sp., Phyllotreta sp., Phyllophaga sp.,Popillia sp., Sitona sp., Tanymecus sp., e.g. Costelytra zealandica or

[0125] against dipterans and notably Drosophila melanogaster, Chrysomyxasp., Hypoderma sp., Tannia sp., Bibio hortulanus, Oscinella frit,Phorbia sp., Pegomyia hyoscyami, Ceratitis capitata, Dacus oleae, Tipulasp., Tipula paludosa, Atherigona sp., Delia sp., Hylemia sp., Psilarosae, Tipula oleracea.

[0126] According to a preferred use of the processes according to theinvention, these processes are carried out to simultaneously combatseveral of the insect pests mentioned; in this case, the processes arereferred to as processes for controlling a group of damaging insects.

[0127] According to an even more preferred use, such processes forcontrolling or treating a group of damaging insects are carried out forthe treatment or protection of a given crop.

[0128] Even more preferably, the processes according to the inventionare carried out in processes for controlling or treating insects, whichravage rice crops.

[0129] The processes for controlling or combating the insect pestsaccording to the invention may be carried out at the various stages inthe life or development of the insects, in particular to control theeggs, the larvae, irrespective of their stage of development, thechrysalides or the nymphs, or alternatively to control the arthropods orthe insects at the adult stage.

[0130] Moreover, the said processes may be carried out both againstisolated insects and against colonies of the said insects, as well asduring infestations with the said insects.

[0131] For their use in treatment or protection processes according tothe invention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) are used inamounts which may vary within a wide range, especially according to thetype of crop and according to the virulence, nature and degree of theattack by the insects, and also according to the climatic or soilconditions.

[0132] Advantageously, in the treatment or protection processesaccording to the invention, the insecticidal compound (A), preferablyFipronil, is used in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 500 g/ha, preferablyranging from 2 to 100 g/ha; as regards the insecticidal compound (B),which is preferably one of the compounds chosen from bifenthrin,cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, alpha-cypermethrin,beta-cypermethrin, theta-cypermethrin, zeta-cypermethrin, deltamethrin,fenpropathrin, fenvalerate, flumethrin, permethrin, phenothrin,tefluthrin, tralomethrin, flucythrinate and tau-fluvalinate, it is usedin an amount ranging from 0.5 to 1000 g/ha, preferably ranging from 1 to500 g/ha.

[0133] Even more advantageously, in the treatment or protectionprocesses according to the invention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and(B) are used simultaneously in respective amounts of between 2 and 100g/ha for the insecticidal compound (A) and between 1 and 500 g/ha forthe insecticidal compound (B).

[0134] The weight ratio A/B is generally between 0.0005 and 250,preferably between 0.05 and 10; the weight ratio B/A is, for its part,generally between 0.004 and 2000, preferably between 0.1 and 20.

[0135] As has just been pointed out, the ratio A/B is a weight ratio ofthe amounts of insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) used.

[0136] Where appropriate, and in a most preferred manner, in theprocesses according to the invention, the ratio between the amounts offipronil and of deltamethrin used is between 0.1 and 5, preferablybetween 0.5 and 3; similarly, the ratio between the amounts of fiproniland of cypermethrin is between 0.05 and 10, preferably between 0.15 and6.

[0137] As regards the amounts of insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) usedin the treatment or protection processes according to the invention byfoliar application, particularly satisfactory results are obtained forapplications after dilution, in particular in water, of between 50 and1500 l/ha, preferably between 200 and 800 l/ha.

[0138] For their use in the treatment or protection processes accordingto the present invention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) may beapplied simultaneously, but may also be prepared extemporaneously at thetime of use of the said processes according to the invention.

[0139] According to another embodiment of the said processes accordingto the invention, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) can also beapplied separately.

[0140] Another aspect of the present invention relates to insecticidalcompounds, which may be used in the processes according to the inventionwhich have been the subject of the above developments.

[0141] In a particularly advantageous manner, the compositions accordingto the invention comprise an insecticidal compound (A) and aninsecticidal compound (B) as have been defined above.

[0142] Thus, the compositions according to the invention preferablycomprise an insecticidal compound (A) containing a pyrazole group, andan insecticidal compound (B) from the pyrethroid family.

[0143] The compositions according to the present inventionadvantageously comprise an insecticidal compound (A) from thephenylpyrazole family.

[0144] More advantageously, the said compositions according to theinvention comprise an insecticidal compound (A) of formula (I) in which:

[0145] R₁ represents —CN or the methyl radical or the radical —C(S)NH₂or the radical —C(═N—Y)Z;

[0146] R₂ represents —S(O)_(n)R₃;

[0147] R₃ represents an alkyl or haloalkyl radical;

[0148] R₄ is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, ahalogen atom and a radical which can be —NR₅R₆, —C(O)OR₇, —S(O)_(m)R₇,alkyl, haloalkyl, —OR₈ or —N═C(R₉) (R₁₀);

[0149] R₅ and R₆ are selected independently from a hydrogen atom, analkyl or haloalkyl radical, —C(O)alkyl, —C(O)OR₇ and —S(O)_(r)CF₃; or R₅and R₆ together form a divalent radical which can be interrupted by oneor more heterbatoms;

[0150] R₇ is selected from an alkyl radical and a haloalkyl radical;

[0151] R₈ is selected from an alkyl radical, a haloalkyl radical and ahydrogen atom;

[0152] R₉ is selected from a hydrogen atom and an alkyl radical;

[0153] R₁₀ is selected from a phenyl radical and heteroaryl radicaloptionally substituted with one or more hydroxyl radicals, halogenatoms, —O-alkyls, —S-alkyls, cyano or alkyl radicals or a combinationthereof;

[0154] X is selected from the nitrogen atom and the radical C—R₁₂;

[0155] Y is selected from the hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy,arylcarbonyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl,alkylcarbamoyl and pyrazole groups, substituted or unsubstituted;

[0156] Z is selected from the hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy,arylcarbonyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyland alkylcarbamoyl groups;

[0157] R₁₁ and R₁₂ are selected independently from a halogen atom and ahydrogen atom;

[0158] R₁₃ is selected from a halogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxyradical, —S(O)_(q)CF₃ and —SF₅;

[0159] m, n, q and r are selected independently from 0, 1 and 2;

[0160] with the proviso that, if R₁ represents the methyl radical, thenR₃ represents a haloalkyl radical, R₄ represents —NH₂, R₁₁ representsCl, R₁₃ represents —CF₃ and X represents N;

[0161] the alkyl and alkoxy radicals of the formula (I) are preferablylower alkyl and alkoxy radicals, i.e. radicals possessing from one tofour carbon atoms;

[0162] the haloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals likewise possess preferablyfrom one to four carbon atoms;

[0163] the haloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals can carry one or morehalogen atoms; the preferred radicals of this type comprise —CF₃ and—OCF₃.

[0164] According to another preferred embodiment, the compositionsaccording to the invention comprise an insecticidal compound (A) offormula (I) in which:

[0165] R₁ represents —CN; and/or

[0166] R₄ represents —NR₅R₆; and/or

[0167] R₅ and R₆ are selected independently from a hydrogen atom, analkyl or haloalkyl radical, —C(O)alkyl and C(O)OR₇; and/or

[0168] X represents —C—R₁₂; and/or

[0169] R₁₃ is selected from a halogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxyradical and —SF₅.

[0170] In accordance with another especially advantageous embodiment,the compositions according to the invention comprise Fipronil, chemicalname5-amino-3-cyano-1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-4-trifluoromethylsulphinylpyrazole,as insecticidal compound (A).

[0171] As regards the compounds of the pyrethroid family which areusually used as insecticidal compound (B) in the compositions accordingto the invention, the ones preferably used are those of formula (II) inwhich:

[0172] R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl radical or aC₁ to C₈ haloalkyl radical or a halogen atom or a substituted orunsubstituted phenyl group;

[0173] R₃ represents a —CN group or a hydrogen atom or a C₁ to C₈ alkylradical;

[0174] R₄ represents a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group.

[0175] Advantageously and according to another embodiment of thecompositions according to the invention, the compound (B) used is acompound of formula (II) in which:

[0176] R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, a bromine atom or a chlorineatom or a methyl radical or an isopropyl radical or a para-chlorophenylradical or a trifluoromethyl radical; and/or

[0177] R₄ represents a substituted or unsubstituted phenoxybenzyl group.

[0178] Another advantageous embodiment of the compositions according tothe invention uses a compound (B) of formula (II) in which:

[0179] R₄ represents a halophenoxybenzyl group.

[0180] Where appropriate, and in the compositions according to theinvention, the compound (B) of formula (II) can be used either in theform of a specific isomer or in the form of a mixture of severalisomers, or even in the form of a mixture of several compounds offormula (II).

[0181] However, as regards the compounds of the pyrethroid family whichare used as insecticidal compound (B) in the compositions according tothe invention, the ones preferably used are the compounds chosen fromthe group comprising:

[0182] bifenthrin or2-methylbiphenyl-3-ylmethyl-(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9;

[0183] cyfluthrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9;

[0184] cyhalothrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in an A/B ratio of between 0.1 and 5;

[0185] cypermethrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9;

[0186] alpha-cypermethrin or racemic mixture comprising(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0187] beta-cypermethrin or reaction mixture comprising, in a 2:3 ratio,the 2 enantiomeric pairs (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate with(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0188] theta-cypermethrin or mixture of the enantiomers(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in a1:1 ratio;

[0189] zeta-cypermethrin or mixture of the stereoisomers(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,in which mixture the ratio of the enantiomeric pairs (S)-(1RS,3RS) and(S)-(1RS,3SR) is, respectively, between 45/55 and 55/45;

[0190] deltamethrin or (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0191] fenpropathrin or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate, especially in a ratio ofbetween 0.1 and 5;

[0192] fenvalerate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(RS)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methylbutyrate, especially in a ratio ofbetween 0.15 and 0.45;

[0193] flumethrin or α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl;

[0194] permethrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in a ratio of between 0.1 and 0.8;

[0195] phenothrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylate;

[0196] tefluthrin or 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-methylbenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in a ratio of between 0.1 and 5;

[0197] tralomethrin or (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-2,2-dimethyl-3-[(RS)-1,2,2,2-tetrabromoethyl]-cyclopropanecarboxylate,especially in a ratio of between 0.6 to 0.9;

[0198] flucythrinate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(S)-2-(4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)-3-methylbutyrate;

[0199] tau-fluvalinate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzylN-(2-chloro-α,α,α-trifluoro-p-tolyl)-D-valinate.

[0200] Usually, the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) used in thecompositions according to the invention are combined with one or moresupports and/or with one or more substances that are useful forformulating them. Thus, where appropriate, the compositions according tothe invention can comprise up to 99% of support and/or up to 25% of oneor more surfactants and/or up to 25% of one or more formulation agents.

[0201] Usually also, the compositions according to the inventioncomprise between 0.00001% and 100%, preferably between 0.001% and 80%,of insecticidal compounds (A) and (B), whether these compounds arecombined, or whether they are in the form of two active materials usedseparately.

[0202] When they use two active materials (A) and (B) together, the saidcompositions according to the invention can do so in amounts asdescribed above, but also for ratios A/B of between 0.0005 and 250,preferably between 0.05 and 10.

[0203] For their use in the compositions according to the invention, thecompounds (A) and (B) are usually combined with one or more supports,optionally with one or more surfactants and optionally with one or moreformulation agents or auxiliaries.

[0204] In the present description, the term “support” denotes an organicor mineral, natural or synthetic material with which the activematerial(s) (A) and/or (B) are [lacuna] in the compositions according tothe invention, especially to facilitate their application to a plant, oralternatively to seeds or to the soil.

[0205] This support is thus generally inert and it should, usually, beagriculturally acceptable, in particular to the treated plant.

[0206] The support which may be used for the formulation of thecompounds (A) and/or (B) in the processes according to the invention maybe solid or liquid.

[0207] As examples of solid supports which may be used, mention may bemade of natural or synthetic silicates, resins, waxes, fine powders orgranules of clay, in particular of kaolin clay, of diatomaceous earth,of bentonite or of acidic clay, synthetic hydrated silicon oxide, talcs,ceramics, other minerals including sericite, quartz, sulphur, activecharcoal, calcium carbonate and hydrated silica, or industrialfertilizers such as ammonium sulphate, ammonium phosphate, ammoniumnitrate, urea or ammonium chloride.

[0208] As examples of liquid supports which may be used, mention may bemade of water, alcohols and especially methanol or ethanol, ketones andespecially acetone, methyl ethyl ketone or cyclohexanone, petroleumfractions, aromatic hydrocarbons including benzene, toluene, xylene,ethylbenzene or methylnaphthalene, non-aromatic hydrocarbons includinghexane, cyclohexane, kerosene or gas oil, liquefied gas, estersincluding ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, nitrites includingacetonitrile and isobutyronitrile, ethers including diisopropyl etherand dioxane, amides including N,N-dimethylformamide andN,N-dimethylacetamide, halogenated hydrocarbons includingdichloromethane, trichloroethane and carbon tetrachloride, dimethylsulphoxide, and plant oils including soybean oil and cotton oil.

[0209] The surfactant(s) may be emulsifiers, dispersants or wettingagents of ionic or nonionic type.

[0210] Mention may be made, for example, of polyacrylic acid salts,lignosulphonic acid salts, phenolsulphonic acid salts ornaphthalenesulphonic acid salts, polycondensates of ethylene oxide withfatty alcohols or fatty acids or fatty amines, substituted phenols, inparticular alkylphenols or arylphenols, salts of sulphosuccinic acidesters, taurine derivatives, in particular alkyltaurates,polyoxyethylated phosphoric esters of alcohols or of phenols; mentionmay be made most particularly of the salts of alkylsulphonates,alkylarylsulphonates, alkylaryl ethers, polyoxyethylenic derivativesthereof, polyethylene glycol ethers, polyalcohol esters, sugarderivatives, alcohols and the like.

[0211] The presence of at least one surfactant is generally essentialwhen at least one of the active materials and/or the inert support isinsoluble, especially in water when the vector agent for the applicationis water.

[0212] In the compositions according to the invention all kinds of otheringredients or agents may also be combined with the compounds (A) and/or(B) such as, for example, protective colloids, adhesives, thickeners,thixotropic agents, penetrating agents, stabilizers including isopropylhydrogen phosphate, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol,2-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol and 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol, mineralor plant oils, fatty acids or esters thereof, sequestering agents,dispersants including casein, gelatin, saccharides and in particularstarch powder, gum arabic, certain cellulose derivatives or alginicacid, lignin derivatives, bentonite, water-soluble synthetic polymers,in particular polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylicacids, etc., and also other active materials known for their pesticidalproperties, in particular insecticides or fungicides; or for theirproperties of promoting plant growth, especially fertilizers; or fortheir regulatory properties on plant or insect growth.

[0213] The insecticidal compositions according to the invention may takequite a wide variety of forms, and may especially be in solid or liquidforms.

[0214] Thus, the said compositions according to the invention can takethe form of relatively numerous formulations, among which mention may bemade of oily solutions, emulsifiable concentrates, wettable powders,fluid formulations and especially aqueous suspensions or aqueousemulsions, granules, powders, aerosols, fumigenic formulations includingself-combustible fumigenic formulations or fumigenic formulationsinvolving a chemical reaction, formulations for nebulization, inparticular formulations for misting, formulations with a very lowvolume, pastes, emulsions, concentrated suspensions, and also possiblemixtures, associations or combinations of these various forms.

[0215] Usually, for the formulations such as the powders for dusting ordispersion, the content of insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) can be upto 100%; similarly, for the formulations in the form of granules,especially those obtained by extrusion, compacting, impregnation of agranular support or granulation using a powder, the content ofinsecticidal compounds (A) and (B) in these granules according to theinvention is usually between 0.5% and 80%.

[0216] The insecticidal compositions according to the invention,referred to as concentrated compositions, comprising an insecticidalcompound (A) and an insecticidal compound (B) which are in the form ofemulsifiable concentrates or soluble concentrates, usually comprise from25% to 100% of active materials; the ready-to-apply emulsions orsolutions themselves contain from 0.00001% to 20% of active materials.

[0217] It goes without saying that the expression “active materials”should be understood throughout the present description as, whereappropriate, an active material or insecticidal compound (A) or (B)alone, but also as a combination of these two active materials.

[0218] In addition to the solvent, the emulsifiable concentrates maycontain, when necessary, 2% to 20% of suitable additives such as thestabilizers, surfactants, penetrating agents, corrosion inhibitors,colorants or adhesives mentioned above.

[0219] The insecticidal compositions according to the invention in theform of concentrated suspensions, which can also be applied by spraying,are prepared so as to obtain a stable fluid product which does notsediment out; they usually contain from 2% to 75% of active materials,from 0.5% to 15% of surfactants, from 0.1% to 10% of thixotropic agents,from 0% to 10% of suitable additives, such as antifoams, corrosioninhibitors, stabilizers, penetrating agents and adhesives, and, assupport, water or an organic liquid in which the active material(s)is(are) insoluble or only sparingly soluble, or alternatively mixturesof several of these organic or inorganic solvents.

[0220] Certain solid organic materials or mineral salts may be dissolvedin the support to halt or prevent the sedimentation; or alternativelysuch materials may be used as antifreezes for the water.

[0221] The insecticidal compositions according to the invention whichtake the form of wettable powders or powders for spraying are usuallyprepared such that they contain from 20% to 95% of active materials.

[0222] Moreover, they usually contain, besides a solid support, from 0%to 5% of a wetting agent, from 3% to 10% of a dispersant, and, whereappropriate, from 0% to 10% of one or more stabilizers and/or otheradditives, such as penetrating agents, adhesives, anticaking agents,colorants, etc.

[0223] To obtain these powders for spraying or wettable powders, theactive material(s) is(are) intimately mixed in suitable mixers with theadditional substances, and are ground using mills or other suitablegrinders. Powders for spraying are thus obtained with particularlyadvantageous wettability and suspendability; they can be suspended inwater to any desired concentration.

[0224] Rather than wettable powders, it is possible to prepareinsecticidal compositions according to the invention which are in theform of pastes.

[0225] The conditions and modes of preparation and of use of thesepastes are similar to those for the wettable powders or powders forspraying.

[0226] As has just been stated, the aqueous dispersions and emulsions,for example the insecticidal compositions obtained by diluting awettable powder or an emulsifiable concentrate according to theinvention with water, are included in the general scope of the presentinvention.

[0227] The emulsions may be of the water-in-oil or oil-in-water type andthey may have a thick or relatively thick consistency.

[0228] More generally, the compositions according to the invention maybe in numerous formulation forms; thus, it is possible to use thesecompositions comprising an insecticidal compound (A) and an insecticidalcompound (B) as an aerosol generator; lure (ready-to-use); concentratefor preparing lures; stock lure; capsule suspension; cold-nebulizationproduct; powder for dusting; emulsifiable concentrate; emulsion ofaqueous/aqueous type; emulsion of oily/reverse type; encapsulatedgranule; fine granule; concentrated suspension for seed treatment;compressed gas; gas-generating product; lure on grain; granulated lure;granule; hot-nebulization product; macrogranule; microgranule; powder tobe dispersed in oil; concentrated suspension dilutable in oil;oil-miscible liquid; paste; stick for agropharmaceutical use; lure onbricks; powder for dry-treating seeds; lure on chunks; treated or coatedseeds; fumigenic candle; fumigenic cartridge; fumigen; fumigenicgranule; fumigenic stick; fumigenic tablet, fumigenic dish; solubleconcentrate; soluble powder; liquid for treating seeds; concentratedsuspension (=fluidizable concentrate); lain powder; very-low-volumeliquid for application; very-low-volume suspension for application;vapour-diffuser product; granules or tablets to be dispersed in water;wettable powder for wet treatment; water-soluble granules or tablets;soluble powder for seed treatment; wettable powder.

[0229] According to another embodiment of the present invention, thevarious insecticidal compositions according to the invention which ithas been possible to describe above may also take the form ofextemporaneous mixtures, commonly referred to as tank mixes.

[0230] These insecticidal compositions in the form of tank mixes areusually in the form of dilute insecticidal compositions.

[0231] In this case, the insecticidal compositions according to theinvention are in the form of insecticidal compositions separatelycomprising the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B), the said insecticidalcompositions thus needing to be mixed together when they are applied orwhen the dilute insecticidal composition to be applied is prepared.

[0232] These insecticidal compositions known as tank mixes are usuallymixed in the tank of the application device.

[0233] However, these said insecticidal compositions separatelycomprising the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) may also be appliedseparately, in particular after dilution, thus making it possible toobtain the properties of the insecticidal compositions according to theinvention comprising the said insecticidal compounds (A) and (B)directly on the sites of application.

[0234] It goes without saying that the different variants or embodimentswhich may be envisaged both for the compositions and for the treatmentand/or protection processes according to the invention form an integralpart of the present invention; the said different variants may moreoverbe combined or associated with each other without, however, departingfrom the spirit or scope of the said invention.

[0235] In the same manner, the various aspects of the present inventionwhich have just been described may be combined or associated with eachother without, however, departing from the spirit or scope of the saidinvention.

[0236] The examples which follow will allow a better illustration of thevarious aspects of the present invention, in particular of the aspectsrelating to the processes and to the compositions according to theinvention using the said insecticidal compositions. However, theseexamples do not in any way limit the scope of the present invention.

[0237] The process examples A to L which follow will give anillustration of specific processes according to the invention.

[0238] These process examples will also make it possible to highlightmany advantages intrinsic to the processes according to the invention.

Process Example A

[0239] This process example proposes to give an illustration of aninsecticidal treatment process according to the invention.

[0240] The treatment process carried out was a treatment process againstyellow rice stem borer or Tryporyza incertulas during the infestation ofa rice crop.

[0241] For the comparison of the process according to the invention withknown insecticidal treatment processes, four plots were prepared in asimilar manner.

[0242] The first is left without treatment, the second is treated withfipronil as active material, the third with deltamethrin and the fourthwith fipronil and deltamethrin in accordance with the process accordingto the invention.

[0243] After sowing and then growing, the rice seedlings aretransplanted at the three- to four-leaf stage.

[0244] The various active materials were then applied 7 days afterplanting out.

[0245] The formulation used in this process according to the inventionis identical to that of Composition Example A.

[0246] The application rates and the results obtained are collated inTable 1.

[0247] The measurement was carried out by counting the number of riceplant cores that were dead due to attack by the damaging insectstreated, i.e. Tryporyza incertulas; thus, the smallest number isobtained after carrying out the process according to the invention,while the untreated plots or plots treated in a known manner givesubstantially larger numbers.

[0248] These results thus show that the process according to theinvention has better insecticidal efficacy while at the same timeallowing a substantial reduction in the amounts of active materialsspread and, concomitantly, a reduction in the environmental impact.TABLE 1 Plot Plot Plot Plot No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 Active material Nofipronil deltamethrin fipronil and used in the treatment deltamethrinprocess carried out Rate of / 10 g/ha 6 g/ha 11 g/ha application of ofwhich active material 5 g/ha of in the process fipronil and 6 g/ha ofdeltamethrin Proportion of dead 78% 56% 66% 54% plant cores found

[0249] This process example thus gives a perfect illustration of theadvantages arising from the use of the process according to theinvention, in particular on account of the very satisfactoryinsecticidal efficacy against the damaging insect treated, but also onaccount of the reduction in the amounts of active materials spread.

Process Example B

[0250] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstleafhoppers and in particular against Nephotettix apicalis.

[0251] This process according to the invention was carried out for thetreatment of a rice crop.

[0252] The operating conditions were reproduced and adapted from thoseof Process Example A.

[0253] The active materials used were fipronil and deltamethrin in aformulation in the form of granules according to Composition Example A.

[0254] The active material(s) was(were) applied to the plots 25 daysafter planting out.

[0255] The rates of active materials applied and the results obtained 14days after application are collated in Table 2. TABLE 2 Plot Plot PlotNo. 1 No. 2 No. 3 Active material fipronil deltamethrin fipronil andused in the deltamethrin process carried out Rate of 25 g/ha 6 g/ha 11g/ha application of of which 5 g/ha active material of fipronil and inthe process 6 g/ha of deltamethrin Insecticidal efficacy 16% 6% 28%

[0256] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amount of activematerial spread.

Process Example C

[0257] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNilaparvata lugens. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0258] The application rates and the results are collated in Table 3.TABLE 3 Plot Plot Plot No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 Active material fipronilcypermethrin fipronil and used in the cypermethrin Process carried outRate of 10 g/ha 12.5 g/ha 17.5 g/ha application of of which 5 g/haactive material of fipronil and in the process 12.5 g/ha of cypermethrinInsecticidal 78% 21% 76% efficacy

[0259] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

Process Example D

[0260] This process example according to the invention gives anillustration of the improvement in the yield of a rice crop obtainedconcomitantly with the control of the insects which ravage this ricecrop.

[0261] In this treatment Process Example according to the invention, theyield of the crop was evaluated, along with the improvement in thisyield obtained by carrying out the said process according to theinvention simultaneously using fipronil as compound (A) and cypermethrinas compound (B).

[0262] The operating and measuring conditions are reproduced and adaptedfrom Process Example B.

[0263] The application rates and the results are collated in Table 4.TABLE 4 Plot Plot Plot Plot No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 Active materialfipronil cypermethrin fipronil and No used in the cypermethrin treatmentprocess carried out Rate of 10 g/ha 12.5 g/ha 17.5 g/ha / application ofof which active material 5 g/ha in the process of fipronil and 12.5 g/haof cypermethrin Yield of the 2.276 1.416 2.596 791 plot (kg/ha)Improvement in 188 78 228 / the yield of the plot (%)

[0264] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofabsolute yield and in terms of relative yield on account of theimprovement obtained during the use of the process according to theinvention, and also in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

Process Example E

[0265] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNilaparvata lugens. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0266] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 5. TABLE 5 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used fipronil deltamethrin fipronil and inthe process carried deltamethrin out Rate of application of 25 g/ha 6g/ha 8 g/ha active material of which in the process 5 g/ha of fiproniland 3 g/ha of deltamethrin Degree of variation in +33% +27% −40% thenumber of damaging insects 3 days after application Degree of variationin +11%    0% −20% the number of damaging insects 7 days afterapplication

[0267] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

[0268] Specifically, only the treatment process according to theinvention using fipronil and deltamethrin as compounds (A) and (B) makesit possible to achieve a reduction in the number of damaging insects.

Process Example F

[0269] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNilaparvata lugens. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0270] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 6. TABLE 6 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used fipronil cypermethrin fipronil and inthe process cypermethrin carried out Rate of application 25 g/ha 12.5g/ha 17.5 g/ha of active material of which in the process 5 g/ha offipronil and 12.5 g/ha of cypermethrin Degree of variation +33% −27%−41% in the number of damaging insects 3 days after application Degreeof variation +11% +13% −47% in the number of damaging insects 7 daysafter application

[0271] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

[0272] Specifically, only the treatment process according to theinvention using fipronil and cypermethrin as compounds (A) and (B) makesit possible to achieve a reduction in the number of damaging insects.

Process Example G

[0273] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNephotettix apicalis. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0274] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 7. TABLE 7 Plot Plot Plot PlotNo. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 Active material fipronil deltamethrin fiproniland No used in the deltamethrin treatment process carried out Rate of 25g/ha 6 g/ha 8 g/ha / application of of which active material 5 g/ha inthe process of fipronil and 3 g/ha of deltamethrin Degree of  +50% −13%−53% +200% variation in the number of damaging insects 1 day afterapplication Degree of  +83% +25% −32% +200% variation in the number ofdamaging insects 3 days after application Degree of +183% +75% +11%+522% variation in the number of damaging insects 7 days afterapplication

[0275] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

Process Example H

[0276] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNilaparvata lugens. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0277] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 8. TABLE 8 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used fipronil fipronil and No in the processcypermethrin treatment carried out Rate of application 25 g/ha 25 g/ha /of active material of which in the process 5 g/ha of fipronil and 20g/ha of cypermethrin Degree of variation −15% −49%  +65% in the numberof damaging insects 1 day after application Degree of variation  −8%−23%  +34% in the number of damaging insects 3 days after applicationDegree of variation −16% −28%  +42% in the number of damaging insects 7days after application Degree of variation +40% +26% +108% in the numberof damaging insects 14 days after application

[0278] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

Process Example I

[0279] This process example gives an illustration of a process accordingto the invention which is useful for insecticidal treatment againstNilaparvata lugens. The operating and measuring conditions arereproduced and adapted from Process Example B.

[0280] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 9. TABLE 9 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used fipronil fipronil and No in the processcypermethrin treatment carried out Rate of application 25 g/ha 25 g/ha /of active material of which in the process  5 g/ha of fipronil and 20g/ha of cypermethrin Degree of variation +19% −14% +113% in the numberof damaging insects 7 days after application

[0281] The results obtained during the use of this process according tothe invention are thus particularly satisfactory, both in terms ofinsecticidal efficacy and in terms of reduction in the amounts of activematerials spread.

Process Example J

[0282] This process example proposes to give an illustration of aninsecticidal treatment process according to the invention.

[0283] The treatment process used was a process of treatment againstyellow rice stem borer or Tryporyza incertulas during the infestation ofa rice crop.

[0284] The operating and measuring conditions are reproduced and adaptedfrom Process Example B.

[0285] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 10. TABLE 10 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used No fipronil fipronil and in the processtreatment cypermethrin carried out Rate of application / 25 g/ha 25 g/haof active material of which in the process  5 g/ha of fipronil and 20g/ha of cypermethrin Degree of variation −26% −35% −66% in the number ofdead plant cores

[0286] The measurement was carried out by counting the number of riceplant cores that were dead due to attack by the damaging insectstreated, i.e. Tryporyza incertulas; thus, the greatest degree ofreduction is obtained after carrying out the process according to theinvention, whereas the untreated plots or plots treated in a knownmanner give substantially more mediocre degrees.

[0287] These results thus show that the process according to theinvention is of superior insecticidal efficacy while at the same timeallowing a substantial reduction in the amounts of active materialsspread and, concomitantly, a reduction in the environmental impact.

Process Example K

[0288] This process example proposes to give an illustration of aninsecticidal treatment process according to the invention.

[0289] The treatment process used was a process of treatment againstScotinophara lurida during the infestation of a rice crop.

[0290] The operating and measuring conditions are reproduced and adaptedfrom Process Example B.

[0291] The active materials used, their application rates and theresults obtained are collated in Table 11. TABLE 11 Plot Plot Plot No. 1No. 2 No. 3 Active material used No fipronil fipronil and in the processtreatment cypermethrin carried out Rate of application / 25 g/ha 25 g/haof active material of which in the process  5 g/ha of fipronil and 20g/ha of cypermethrin Degree of variation −21% −43% −52% in the number ofdamaging insects 1 day after treatment Degree of variation −40% −67%−81% in the number of damaging insects 3 days after treatment Degree ofvariation −27% −45% −60% in the number of damaging insects 14 days aftertreatment

[0292] These results thus show that the process according to theinvention is of higher insecticidal efficacy while at the same timeallowing a substantial reduction in the amounts of active materialsspread and, concomitantly, a reduction in the environmental impact.

Process Example L

[0293] Maize seeds (variety Lorenzo) in a container under agitation weretreated with the active ingredients, alone and in combination. Threetreated seeds were sown in a 10-cm diameter pot. A week after sowing,each pot was infected with 10 L2 larvae of Agrotis segetum (turnipmoth). The efficacy of the active ingredients at preventing feedingdamage was determined 42 days after sowing. The test was carried out ina glasshouse at 22-27° C. and 30-70% relative humidity.

[0294] To indicate the existence of synergism between the activecomponents the results were treated in the manner described by Colby S.R., “Calculating Synergistic and Antagonistic Responses of HerbicideCombinations” in Weeds 1967 15, 20-22. In this method the “expected”percent control of damage, E, of the combination compared with untreatedcontrol is given by the equation

E=D+F−DF/100

[0295] where D is the % control by deltamethrin used alone at a givenconcentration and F is the % control by fipronil, used alone at a givenconcentration. If the observed control of the mixture is greater than Ethe results indicate synergism. The results are shown in the followingtable. TABLE 12 Table (Average of 3 treatments) Active Expectedingredient Rate Control (E) (formulation) (g a.i./kg seed) (% efficacy)(%) Untreated — 0 fipronil (FS 2, 5 50 500 g/l) deltamethrin 0, 5 40 (SC50 g/l) fipronil (FS 2, 5 + 0, 5 90 70 500 g/l) + deltamethrin (SC 50g/l)

[0296] In a particularly satisfactory manner, the results obtained inthe various processes according to the invention carried out in ProcessExamples A to L required only a single application of the activematerials (A) and (B) used, whereas, in the known usual practise, it iscommon to make use of several applications in order to achieve anacceptable or equivalent result.

[0297] Composition Examples A to G illustrate specific insecticidalcompositions according to the invention.

Composition Example A

[0298] According to a composition example according to the invention inthe form of granules, the following constituents are used: 22.7 g offipronil as insecticidal compound (A)   50 g and 27.3 g of deltamethrinas insecticidal compound (B) epichlorohydrin  2.5 g cetyl polyglycolether  2.5 g polyethylene glycol   35 g kaolin with a particle size ofbetween 0.3 and  910 g 0.8 mm

[0299] In this particular case, the insecticidal active materials aremixed with the epichlorohydrin and 60 g of acetone are added, followedby addition of the polyethylene glycol and the cetyl polyglycol ether.The kaolin is sprinkled with the solution obtained and the acetone isthen evaporated off under vacuum.

Composition Example B

[0300] According to a composition example according to the invention inthe form of granules, the following constituents are used: 14.3 g offipronil as insecticidal compound (A)   50 g and 35.7 g of cypermethrinas insecticidal compound (B) epichlorohydrin  2.5 g cetyl polyglycolether  2.5 g polyethylene glycol   35 g kaolin with a particle size ofbetween 0.3 and  910 g 0.8 mm

[0301] The process is then performed as described for CompositionExample A.

Composition Example C

[0302] This example proposes to illustrate a composition according tothe invention, which is in the form of an emulsifiable concentrate. 7.2g of fipronil as insecticidal compound (A) 25 g and 17.8 g ofcypermethrin as insecticidal compound (B) tristyrylphenol/ethylene oxidecondensate 10 g solution containing 70% by weight/volume of  5 g calciumdodecylbenzenesulphonate N-methylpyrrolidone 50 g light C₁₀ aromaticsolvent 10 g

[0303] The first three components are dissolved in theN-methylpyrrolidone; the light C₁₀ aromatic solvent is then added toadjust to the final volume.

Composition Example D

[0304] Another specific insecticidal composition according to theinvention, which is in the form of an emulsifiable concentrate, isprepared using the following components: 15.6 g of fipronil asinsecticidal compound (A) 25 g and 9.4 g of deltamethrin as insecticidalcompound (B) tristyrylphenol/ethylene oxide condensate 10 g solutioncontaining 70% by weight/volume of  5 g calcium dodecylbenzenesulphonateN-methylpyrrolidone 50 g light C₁₀ aromatic solvent 10 g

[0305] The process is then performed as described for CompositionExample C.

Composition Example E

[0306] According to a composition example according to the invention inthe form of granules, the following constituents are used: 10 g offipronil as insecticidal compound (A)   50 g and 40 g of cypermethrin asinsecticidal compound (B) epichlorohydrin  2.5 g cetyl polyglycol ether 2.5 g polyethylene glycol   35 g kaolin with a particle size of between0.3 and  910 g 0.8 mm

[0307] The process is then performed as described for CompositionExample A.

Composition Example F

[0308] According to another specific composition example according tothe invention in the form of water-dispersible granules, the followingconstituents are used: 81.9 g of fipronil as insecticidal compound (A) 180 g and 98.1 g of deltamethrin as insecticidal compound (B) sodiumlignosulphonate   27 g alkylnaphthalenesulphonates condensate   18 galkylnaphthalenesulphonates  4.5 g

[0309] The ingredients are mixed together, micronized in a fluid-energymill and then granulated in a rotary granulator by spraying with water(up to 10%). The granules thus obtained are dried in a fluidized-beddryer in order to remove the excess water.

Composition Example G

[0310] According to another specific composition example according tothe invention in the form of water-dispersible granules, the followingconstituents are used: 36 g of fipronil as insecticidal compound (A) 180 g and 144 g of cypermethrin as insecticidal compound (B) sodiumlignosulphonate   27 g alkylnaphthalenesulphonates condensate   18 galkylnaphthalenesulphonates  4.5 g

[0311] The process is then performed as described for CompositionExample F.

[0312] The Compositions Examples A to G, and also the Process Examples Ato L, which have just been given clearly illustrate the superiority ofthe compositions and processes according to the invention over the knowninsecticides (A) and (B) alone.

[0313] The combination of the said process examples also allows aperfect illustration of the advantages provided by the treatmentprocesses according to the invention, by means of compositions accordingto the invention comprising an insecticidal compound (A) and aninsecticidal compound (B).

[0314] Satisfactory results are also obtained when insecticidalcompositions according to the invention in the form of one or other ofthe insecticidal compositions according to the invention, in particularthose illustrated by Composition Examples A to G, are used for thetreatment processes according to the invention.

[0315] Moreover, no phytotoxicity phenomenon is observed in theseprocess examples during treatments using the various insecticidalcompositions according to the invention.

1. Process for treating and controlling crop-damaging arthropods,characterized in that it uses an insecticidal compound (A) of formula(I)

in which: R₁ represents —CN or the methyl radical or the radical—C(S)NH₂ or the radical —C(═N—Y)Z; R₂ represents —S(O)_(n)R₃; R₃represents an alkyl or haloalkyl radical; R₄ is selected from the groupconsisting of a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom and a radical which can be—NR₅R₆, —C(O)OR₇, —S(O)_(m)R₇, alkyl, haloalkyl, —OR₈ or —N═C(R₉) (R₁₀);R₅ and R₆ are selected independently from a hydrogen atom, an alkyl orhaloalkyl radical, —C(O)alkyl, —C(O)OR₇, and —S(O)_(r)CF₃; or R₅ and R₆together form a divalent radical which can be interrupted by one or moreheteroatoms; R₇ is selected from an alkyl radical and a haloalkylradical; R₈ is selected from an alkyl radical, a haloalkyl radical and ahydrogen atom; R₉ is selected from a hydrogen atom and an alkyl radical;R₁₀ is selected from a phenyl and heteroaryl radical optionallysubstituted with one or more hydroxyl radicals, halogen atoms,—O-alkyls, —S-alkyls, cyano or alkyl radicals or a combination thereof;X is selected from the nitrogen atom and the radical C—R₁₂; Y isselected from the hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy, arylcarbonyl,alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl, alkylcarbamoyland pyrazole groups, substituted or unsubstituted; Z is selected fromthe hydroxyl, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxy, arylcarbonyl, alkylcarbonyl,alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl and alkylcarbamoyl groups; R₁₁and R₁₂ are selected independently from a halogen atom and a hydrogenatom; R₁₃ is selected from a halogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxyradical, —S(O)_(q)CF₃ and —SF₅; m, n, q and r are selected independentlyfrom 0, 1 and 2; with the proviso that, if R₁ represents the methylradical, then R₃ represents a haloalkyl radical, R₄ represents —NH₂, R₁₁represents Cl, R₁₃ represents —CF₃ and X represents N; the alkyl andalkoxy radicals of the formula (I) are preferably lower alkyl and alkoxyradicals, i.e. radicals possessing from one to four carbon atoms; thehaloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals likewise possess preferably from oneto four carbon atoms; the haloalkyl and haloalkoxy radicals can carryone or more halogen atoms; the preferred radicals of this type comprise—CF₃ and —OCF₃; and an insecticidal compound (B) of the pyrethroidfamily.
 2. Process according to claim 1, characterized in that theinsecticidal compound (A) is of formula (I) in which: R₁ represents —CN;and/or R₄ represents —NR₅R₆; and/or R₅ and R₆ are selected independentlyfrom a hydrogen atom, an alkyl or haloalkyl radical, —C(O)alkyl andC(O)OR₇; and/or X represents —C—R₁₂; and/or R₁₃ is selected from ahalogen atom, a haloalkyl or haloalkoxy radical and —SF₅.
 3. Processaccording to either one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that theinsecticidal compound (A) is fipronil or5-amino-3-cyano-1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-4-trifluoromethylsulphinylpyrazole.4. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in thatthe insecticidal compound (B) is of formula (II)

in which: R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl radicalor a C₁ to C₈ haloalkyl radical or a halogen atom or a substituted orunsubstituted phenyl group; and/or R₃ represents a —CN group or ahydrogen atom or a C₁ to C₈ alkyl radical; and/or R₄ represents asubstituted or unsubstituted phenyl group.
 5. Process according to anyone of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the insecticidal compound(B) is of formula (II) in which R₁ and R₂ represent, independently, abromine atom or a chlorine atom or a methyl radical or an isopropylradical or a para-chlorophenyl radical or a trifluoromethyl radical;and/or R₄ represents a substituted or unsubstituted phenoxybenzyl group.6. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in thatthe insecticidal compound (B) is of formula (II) in which R₄ representsa halophenoxybenzyl group.
 7. Process according to any one of claims 1to 6, characterized in that the insecticidal compound (B) is in the formof a specific isomer or in the form of a mixture of several isomers orin the form of a mixture of several compounds of formula (II). 8.Process according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that theinsecticidal compound (B) is chosen from the group comprising bifenthrinor2-methylbiphenyl-3-ylmethyl-(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;cyfluthrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;cyhalothrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;cypermethrin or (R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;alpha-cypermethrin or racemic mixture comprising(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;beta-cypermethrin or reaction mixture comprising, in a 2:3 ratio, the 2enantiomeric pairs (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate with(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;theta-cypermethrin or mixture of the enantiomers(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in a1:1 ratio; zeta-cypermethrin or mixture of the stereoisomers(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,in which mixture the ratio of the enantiomeric pairs (S)-(1RS,3RS) and(S)-(1RS,3SR) is, respectively, between 45/55 and 55/45; deltamethrin or(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;fenpropathrin or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate; fenvalerate or(RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl (RS)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methylbutyrate;flumethrin or α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl; permethrin or3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;phenothrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylatein an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 2.5; tefluthrin or2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-methylbenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;tralomethrin or (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-2,2-dimethyl-3-[(RS)-1,2,2,2-tetrabromoethyl]-cyclopropanecarboxylate;flucythrinate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(S)-2-(4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)-3-methylbutyrate; tau-fluvalinate or(RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzylN-(2-chloro-α,α,α-trifluoro-p-tolyl)-D-valinate.
 9. Process according toany one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it is used for thetreatment and/or protection of crops, in particular for the treatmentand/or protection of cereal or market-garden crops, particularly rice,wheat, barley or rye, as well as for the treatment or protection ofcorn, sorghum, sunflower, soybean, or alternatively cotton, pea, rape,potato, vegetable or fruit crops and beet, onions, cabbages, tomatoes,beans, lettuces.
 10. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 9,characterized in that it is used for the treatment and/or protection ofthe plant propagation material or the seeds, in particular the grains,the tubers or the rhizomes; and/or for the treatment and/or protectionof the roots; and/or for the treatment and/or protection of the stems orleaves of the plant; and/or for the treatment and/or protection of theroots, or alternatively of the fruits or other parts of the plant havinga substantial economic or agronomic value; and/or for the treatmentand/or protection of soil which is cultivated or intended to becultivated.
 11. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 12,characterized in that it is used for the treatment and/or protection ofplants at numerous stages in their development, in particular for thetreatment of seeds, seedlings or planted-out seedlings, planted-outplants, or plants.
 12. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 11,characterized in that it is used to combat or control insect pests, inparticular to combat or control insects of the families Delphacidae sp.especially Nilaparvata lugens, Nilaparvata oryzae and Sogatellafurcifera; and/or Cicadellidae sp. especially Empoasca decipiens,Nephotettix apicalisi, Nephotettix impicticeps, Nephotettix cincticepsand Nilaparvata oryzae; and/or Pyralidae sp., especially Tryporyzaincertulas, Tryporyza innotata, Cnaphalocrosis medinalis, Chilo loftini,Chilo suppressalis, Chilo indicus and Chilotraea plejadellus;Tylenchidae sp., especially Ditylenchus dipsaci, Ditylenchus angustusand Ditylenchus radicicolus; and/or Noctuidae sp., especially Sesamiainterens, Sesamia calamistis, Sesamia cretica and Spodoptera litura;and/or Pentatomidae sp. especially Scotinophara lurida and Scotinopharacoarctata; and/or Plutellidae sp. especially Plutella xylostella; and/orTortricidae sp. especially Archips breviplicanus; and/or Cecidomyiidaesp. especially Orselia oryzae and Pachydiplosis oryzae.
 13. Processaccording to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it is usedto control or combat soil borne insect pests.
 14. Process according toany one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it is used to controlor combat insect pests at the various stages in the life or developmentof the insects, in particular to control the eggs, the larvae,irrespective of their stage of development, the chrysalides or thenymphs, or alternatively to control the arthropods or the insects at theadult stage.
 15. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 14,characterized in that it uses from 0.5 to 500 g/ha, preferably from 2 to100 g/ha, of insecticidal compound (A) and/or from 0.5 to 1 000 g/ha,preferably from 1 to 500 g/ha, of insecticidal compound (B); and/or inthat it uses the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) in a weight ratioA/B of between 0.0005 and 250, preferably between 0.05 and 10; and/or inthat it uses the insecticidal compounds (A) and (B) in a weight ratioB/A of between 0.004 and 2 000, preferably between 0.1 and
 20. 16.Process according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that ituses fipronil as compound (A) and deltamethrin or cypermethrin ascompound (B), in respective ratios A/B of between 0.1 and 5, preferablybetween 0.5 and 3, for deltamethrin, and between 0.05 and 10, preferablybetween 0.15 and 6, for cypermethrin.
 17. Composition able to be used ina process according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that itcomprises fipronil or5-amino-3-cyano-1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-4-trifluoromethylsulphinylpyrazole,as insecticidal compound (A), and an insecticidal compound (B) chosenfrom bifenthrin or2-methylbiphenyl-3-ylmethyl-(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9; cyfluthrin or(R,S)-α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9; cyhalothrin or(R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein an A/B ratio of between 0.1 and 5; cypermethrin or(R,S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein an A/B ratio of between 0.25 and 0.9; alpha-cypermethrin or racemicmixture comprising (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;beta-cypermethrin or reaction mixture comprising, in a 2:3 ratio, the 2enantiomeric pairs (S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate with(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;theta-cypermethrin or mixture of the enantiomers(R)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S,3R)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in a1:1 ratio; zeta-cypermethrin or mixture of the stereoisomers(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate,in which mixture the ratio of the enantiomeric pairs (S)-(1RS,3RS) and(S)-(1RS,3SR) is, respectively, between 45/55 and 55/45; deltamethrin or(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate;fenpropathrin or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in a ratio of between 0.1 and5; fenvalerate or (RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(RS)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methylbutyrate in a ratio of between 0.15 and0.45; flumethrin or α-cyano-4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzyl; permethrin or3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein a ratio of between 0.1 and 0.8; phenothrin or 3-phenoxybenzyl(1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylate;tefluthrin or 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-methylbenzyl(Z)-(1RS,3RS)-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylatein a ratio of between 0.1 and 5; tralomethrin or(S)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-2,2-dimethyl-3-[(RS)-1,2,2,2-tetrabromoethyl]-cyclopropanecarboxylatein a ratio of between 0.6 to 0.9; flucythrinate or(RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(S)-2-(4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)-3-methylbutyrate; tau-fluvalinate or(RS)-α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzylN-(2-chloro-α,α,α-trifluoro-p-tolyl)-D-valinate.
 18. Compositionaccording to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises between0.00001% and 100%, preferably between 0.001% and 80%, of insecticidalcompounds (A) and (B).
 19. Composition according to either one of claims17 and 18, characterized in that it comprises up to 99% of one or moresupports and/or up to 25% of one or more surfactants and/or up to 25% ofone or more formulation agents.